READING: Isaiah 7-8, Ephesians 2
“But God, who is rich in mercy, because of his great love that he had for us, made us alive with Christ even though we were dead in trespasses.”
Ephesians 2:4
They are just two words, but they’re words that changed the world: “but God” (Eph. 2:4).
- We were dead in our sin, living according “to the ways of this world, according to the ruler of the power of the air” (Eph. 2:2), but God gave us life.
- We were lost, “carrying out the inclinations of our flesh and thoughts” (Eph. 2:3), but God called us to salvation.
- We were “by nature children under wrath” (Eph. 2:3), but God forgave us.
- We were separated from Him, but God has “brought [us] near by the blood of Christ” (Eph. 2:13).
- We can do nothing to purchase our salvation, but God saves us “by grace through faith” (Eph. 2:8).
How many times might you have used those same words? You faced financial difficulties, but God provided what you needed. Your health diagnosis was not good, but God healed you. Your marriage struggled, but God brought forgiveness and unity. Your church wasn’t growing, but God sent revival. It seemed like He wasn’t hearing your prayers, but God granted you faith amid your questions. You weren’t sure what to do with your life, but God gave clarity.
I could go on and on, recognizing that God’s care for us far exceeds our understanding. The words, “but God” in Ephesians 2:4 remind us, in fact, that God is a God of initiative, the One who pursues us when we’re running from Him. We are a helpless, hopeless, and rebellious people, but God loves us anyway.
That’s good news. In fact, it’s news worth telling.
ACTION STEPS:
- Praise God that He did not leave us dead in our sins.
- Tell somebody about His grace today.
PRAYER: “God, thank You for Your Word. Thank you for helping me see that the phrase, ‘but God’ is filled with hope.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Isaiah 9-10, Ephesians 3